Charles H., Frederick A., and Joseph, under the firm-name of Ruhe Brothers, established a manufactory of cigars in 1862 at Allentown. From small beginnings their business gradually increased until about five hundred persons were employed, and the establishment became one of the largest, and its proprietors the oldest continuous cigar-makers in the State. In 1870, Charles H. retired from the firm, and embarking in the iron-casting and machine business, remained a year and a half thus engaged, when he re-entered the old firm, which remained unchanged until the death of Frederick A. Ruhe, in March, 1880. In 1881 a branch house, for the sale of the products of the factory, was established in Chicago, Ill, which has been equally successful, and, in conjunction with the main house, controls an extensive trade. Politically, all brothers were and are Republicans, participating actively in the work of the party. All three have been members of the Select Council, Charles H. having, during his period of service, filled for one year the office of president of that body. He has also, for more than fifteen years, been a member of the School Board, He is a director of the Second National Bank, of the Allentown and Coopersburg Turnpike Company, and the Allentown and Bethlehem Turnpike Company.